Advances in Alternative Measures in Plant Protection
Due to increasing concern about the use of pesticides and its potential side effects, this book considers the development and application of alternative, environmental-friendly, plant protection methods for the control of weeds, disease, and pests (predators, parasitoids, competitors, plant-plant interactions, microelements, biopesticides). Some of the main advantages of the measures presented in papers are the absence of toxicity to humans and vertebrates, beneficial organisms, and the environment, as well as the absence of pest resistance. In order to provide sustainable and eco-friendly food production, those are important subjects, both in conventional, organic and integrated agricultural farming. Through reviews and original research articles, this book covers all aspects of alternative measures in plant protection.
The Digital Health in the Pandemic Era
Digital health, virtual assistance, and telemedicine are terms often used interchangeably to refer to remote medical assistance, monitoring and care. Several studies and insights have developed these issues, analyzing the advantages and disadvantages and successes and failures and offering reflections on the implications and issues of these technologies in the health domain. The results of these investigations are affecting the redesign of hospital and outpatient management based on digital innovation using eHealth and mHealth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this approach made it possible to offer assistance and continue care at home, protecting patients, preserving health workers, limiting the spread of the virus, and reducing the need for hospitalization. This reprint contains contributions dealing with the development of DH during the COVID-19 pandemic. The contributions are from various experts in different fields regarding the application of digital health, which, in some cases is also integrated with artificial intelligence, including digital contact tracing, mHealth, virtual reality, mental health, physiology, and rehabilitation.
Programmable Planet
Honorable Mention, 2024 Richard Frisbie Award for Adult Nonfiction, Society of Midland Authors A new science is reengineering the fabric of life. Synthetic biology offers bold new ways of manufacturing medicines, clothing, foods, fragrances, and fuels, often using microbe fermentation, much like brewing beer. The technology can help confront climate change, break down industrial pollutants, and fight novel viruses. Today, researchers are manipulating life forms and automating evolution to create vegetarian "meat," renewable construction materials, and cancer treatments. In the process, they are changing our concept of what life science can achieve. Is this a new industrial and information revolution--or dangerous tinkering that could unleash unintended consequences? Programmable Planet is a grand tour through the world of synthetic biology, telling the stories of the colorful visionaries whose ideas are shaping discoveries. Ted Anton explores the field from its beginning in fighting malaria in Africa to the COVID vaccines and beyond. Covering medical and agricultural triumphs and blunders, he examines successes in energy production, plant gene editing, and chemical manufacturing, as well as the most controversial attempts at human gene enhancement. This book reports from the front lines of research, showing policy makers' struggle to stay abreast of the technologies they aim to regulate. Even-handed, lively, and informative, Programmable Planet gives a glimpse of the promise and problems of a new biology-based industry.
Neuroscience, Neurophysiology and Symmetry
This reprint focuses on fundamental and applied research on asymmetry of movement and postural balance and underlying functions in humans. Experimental protocols based on kinetic, kinematic, radiological, functional magnetic resonance imaging and transcranial Doppler ultrasound data taken from healthy, young, elderly and pathological individuals provide new insights into asymmetry in human movement and posture and are presented in the Special Issue.
Impact of drying on the quality of figs (Ficus carica)
The fig has been a typical fruit component of the Mediterranean diet for a very long time. Since it is a seasonal fruit with a perishable aspect, it must be preserved in its dry form which can be obtained by several drying processes namely sun, oven and microwave drying. Several investigations were interested in the study of the influence of these drying processes on the quality attributes of this fruit whether it is physicochemical, nutritional, phytochemical and especially on the antioxidant activity. The dried fig proved to be a fruit rich in nutrients as well as bioactive substances such as total polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins which contribute to its very important antioxidant power.
MEMS and Microfluidic Devices for Analytical Chemistry and Biosensing
The outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has made the general public aware of the breakthrough technologies which were developed in recent years for state-of-the-art biosensing, and terms such as clinical specificity and sensitivity are now widely understood. The need for reliable point-of-care diagnostic systems during the last few years has been crucial.Continuous developments in MEMS technology and microfluidics are key drivers for the miniaturization of lab-grade sensing systems. Micro-technologies and miniaturization allow for designing lightweight and small devices, other advantages include reduced consumption of power and reagents, faster response times, increased sensitivity, reduced environmental footprint, availability of batch production processes for low-cost and disposable devices.This Special Issue published seven novel contributions in the fields of biosensing, lab-on-chip, organ-on-chip and related technologies such as numerical microfluidics studies, digital micro-fluidics and micromixers.
Transcriptional Regulation and Its Misregulation in Human Diseases
Transcriptional regulation is a critical biological process that allows the cell or an organism to respond to a variety of intra- and extracellular signals, to define cell identity during development, to maintain it throughout its lifetime, and to coordinate cellular activity. This control involves multiple temporal and functional steps as well as innumerable molecules including transcription factors, cofactors, and chromatin regulators. It is well known that many human disorders are characterized by global transcriptional dysregulation because most of the signaling pathways ultimately target transcription machinery. Indeed, many syndromes and genetic and complex diseases-cancer, autoimmunity, neurological and developmental disorders, and metabolic and cardiovascular diseases-can be caused by mutations/alterations in regulatory sequences, transcription factors, splicing regulators, cofactors, chromatin regulators, ncRNAs, and other components of transcription apparatus. It is worth noting that advances in our understanding of molecules and mechanisms involved in the transcriptional circuitry and apparatus lead to new insights into the pathogenetic mechanisms of various human diseases and disorders. Thus, this Special Issue is focused on molecular genetics and genomics studies exploring the effects of transcriptional misregulation on human diseases.
Fungal Nanotechnology 2.0
Fungal Nanotechnology 2 provides an updated and thorough explanation of the green and sustainable production of metal- and organic-based nanostructures by various fungal species, as well as an investigation of intracellular and extracellular mechanisms, with a particular focus on the applications of fungal nanotechnology in biomedical, environmental, and agri-food sectors. Since FN is still in its infancy, major research should be conducted in this field; plants, animals, and people will all benefit significantly from this, and effective and environmentally acceptable methods should be developed.
Purinergic Signaling in Neuroinflammation
It is currently apparent that extracellular ATP's physiological effect is mediated by its interaction with specific purinergic receptors. All purinergic receptors are divided into P1-purinoreceptors and P2-purinoreceptors. Each of the subtypes is divided into a number of families. For instance, P2 receptors are divided into P2X and P2Y receptors according to the mechanism by which their effect is realized: P2Y are G-protein-coupled receptors, while P2X receptors are ligand-operated ion channels. P2X receptors are important molecular therapeutic targets, the malfunctioning of which leads to severe complications in the physiology of humans and animals and causes dangerous diseases. The search for compounds that can modulate the function of purinergic receptors can lead to the creation of new drugs that are effective in central and peripheral nervous system and immune system disease treatment, including neuroinflammation, hypoxia/ischemia, epilepsy and neuropathic pain. In this Special Issue, we wish to offer a platform for high-quality publications on the latest advances in the identification of P2X/Y- and P1-receptor blockers, functions and regulation by them; the characterization of these receptor signaling networks and crosstalk; mechanisms underlying the role of purinoceptors in neurodegenerative illnesses as well as chronic neuronal changes following acute noxious damage and therapeutic opportunities associated with regulation of purinergic receptor activity.
The Role of Toll-Like Receptors (TLR) in Infection and Inflammation
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) represent a powerful system for the recognition and elimination of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) from bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) released from dying cells. Typical PAMPs include bacterial cell wall components, viral pathogens, or pathogenic nucleic acids, including viral RNA and DNA. Activation of TLRs leads to the production of proinflammatory cytokines and type I interferons which are important for the induction of the host immune response against bacterial and viral infections. However, dysregulation and overstimulation can be detrimental, leading to hyper-inflammation, sepsis, and loss of tissue integrity. The involvement of TLRs in inflammation and bacterial infection has been recognized for a long time. There is an increasing number of reports demonstrating the involvement of TLR activation in a variety of viral infections, associated with protective immunity, but also immune hyper activation and even viral replication. Recent data show the involvement of TLR activation in various acute respiratory viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2 and indicate an essential role in COVID-19 pathology. It aimed to gather newest data and hypotheses regarding molecular and cellular mechanisms of TLR triggering and activation and their downstream signaling pathways by viral infections, and their correlation to immunology and pathophysiology of the associated diseases, to facilitate translational research resulting in new targets for the treatment of viral infectious diseases including COVID-19.
Oxidative Stress in Parasites
Parasitic infections pose a significant public health challenge, particularly in developing countries, and can lead to long-term illness, disability, and even death. This reprint focuses on parasitic diseases and how parasites respond to the oxidative and nitrosative stress generated by the host's immune system. The articles in this Special Issue cover various aspects of this topic, including the localization of parasites within the host, the impact of nutrition and drugs, and the role of the host's immune defense cells in the parasitic response to oxidative and nitrosative stress. Understanding the mechanisms underlying parasitic diseases is crucial for developing innovative treatments that can target parasites' defense against oxidative stress. This Special Issue serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and physicians interested in parasitic infections.
Food Addiction, Eating Addiction and Other Forms of Addictive-Like Eating Behavior
There is growing evidence that among persons with disordered eating behavior, the identification of an "addictive-like eating" phenotype for some persons could be relevant and improve our ability to design better tailored interventions. This "addictive-like eating behavior" phenotype encompasses different terms or concepts, including "food addiction", "eating addiction", "compulsive eating behavior", and "food craving", but also applies to some persons with binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, or binge eating symptoms. Although these terms may theoretically refer to different underlying causes or conceptualizations of addictive-like eating, all agree on the complex and multifaceted public health problem it represents and on the similarities it shares with other addictive disorders in terms of etiology, epidemiology, and treatment.Addictive-like eating behavior can deleteriously impact the patient's outcome and may lead to poorer weight loss evolution, increased prevalence of co-occurring medical and/or psychiatric disorders, and/or lower quality of life. One of the key challenges for the present and future research is to better identify this subpopulation of patients exhibiting this addictive-like eating phenotype, and to identify the psychological/psychiatric factors and biological mechanisms underlying this increased vulnerability to addictive-like eating. Such preliminary knowledge is crucial for enabling the development of interventions targeting these vulnerability risk factors and, ultimately, improving patient outcomes.
Bacterial Virulence
This detailed volume explores the field of bacterial virulence and the effort to understand how microbial interaction with a host results in the pathology of a specific disease. This collection of selected protocols includes advanced molecular biology and bioinformatics methods, cell culture and organoid models of infection, as well as in vivo infection models that are useful to study the interaction of pathogens with plants, insects, avian, and mammalian hosts. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and beneficial, Bacterial Virulence: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal guide for researchers seeking to promote and further develop the exciting and continuously evolving field of bacterial virulence.Chapter 19 is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.
A Field Guide to Giant Clams of the Indo-Pacific
This book introduces readers to the giant clam's biology, taxonomy and systematics, ecological and cultural significance, threats and challenges, and conservation solutions. The highlight of this book is the species identification guide containing descriptions of 12 known giant clam species accompanied by accurate hand-drawn shell illustrations and live photographs of specimens for comparison. Detailed information is summarised in a visual key on the distinctive features of the individual species, with notes on their ecology, geographic distribution, taxonomy and morphology. This book also includes other useful natural history information to spur the reader's interest in these magnificent animals.With the most comprehensive information presented concisely, this book allows readers to identify a particular giant clam readily and confidently, as well as the other species that it may easily be confused with, confirm that the species occurs in a specific area, and access general information on the biology and ecology of the species. It is a valuable resource for researchers, students, the SCUBA diving community, managers of marine resources, and the public.
Circadian Regulation
This volume details methods on several aspects of circadian research. Chapters guide readers through the latest techniques and a wide variety of daily rhythmic processes, model organisms, circadian rhythms in the SCN and in peripheral organs, and describing in vitro systems and in silico methods. Written in the format of the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, each chapter includes an introduction to the topic, lists necessary materials and reagents, includes tips on troubleshooting and known pitfalls, and step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Circadian Regulation: Methods and Protocols aims to be a useful practical guide to researches to help further their study in this field. Chapters 3, 4, 8, and 17 are available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.
Knowledge and phenotypic variability of Picralima nitida in Benin
A lot of knowledge is lost in Africa due to lack of transmission, which does not favor the conservation of resources by local populations. In addition, these populations hold a great deal of knowledge about the use of resources. The aim of the study is to provide information on the use value, morphological variability and germination ability of P. nitida seeds. To achieve this, 240 informants, randomly selected from 04 socio-cultural groups namely Fon, Goun, Nago, A簿zo were surveyed. The results reveal that the local populations of the four socio-cultural groups use the roots, barks, leaves and seeds of P. nitida for 21 treatments. The Goun sociocultural group has a better knowledge of the uses of the species. The study of phenotypic variability yielded 03 fruit morphotypes and 05 seed morphotypes. Class 2, consisting mainly of fruits from Adjarra, is longer, wider, thicker and heavier. The germination of the seed morphotypes on simple substrate was negative. The species therefore has a natural regeneration problem.
Chromatin and Gene Function: A Primer
The purpose of this primer is to provide students, teachers as well as academic and industry researchers with a succinct account of the chemical and structural features of chromatin and the role that these features play in the maintenance and function of the genetic material.It is universally accepted that DNA is the carrier of the genetic information that is transmitted from parents to their offspring and that it is responsible for the anatomy, physiology and behavior of all individuals throughout development and adult life. Yet, how this information is retrieved and used selectively to allow a fertilized egg to become an organism made up of myriads of different cells and tissues is not as evident and easily understood.Dr Lucchesi, an internationally known researcher and teacher, provides an easily opened window into the role that the complex of proteins and nucleic acids that are associated with the DNA play in mediating gene expression and in responding to environmental circumstances.
Recent Progress in Plant Taxonomy and Floristic Studies
Taxonomy, floristic studies, biosystematics, classical taxonomy, and modern taxonomic advances; phylogenomics, phylogenetics, and biogeography, including phylogeography; and the description of well-documented new taxonomic taxa, monographs, and taxonomic revisions. It incorporates data from classical morphology (including both macro and micro morphology), molecular study, anatomy and ecology, distribution, molecular evolution, evolutionary development, population biology, conservation biology, evolutionary ecology, paleobiology, and related methods and theories in recent development in systematics and floristic studies.
Functionality and Food Applications of Plant Proteins
The demand for plant proteins continues to increase due to the growing global population, rising protein deficiency, and their versatile environmental, functional, nutritional, and health benefits. Plant proteins represent a more sustainable source to (partially) supplement costly animal-based foods. Many factors can influence protein functionality and application, such as protein sources, production methods, molecular structures, chemical properties, food formulations and environment, and food processing techniques. The potential applications of plant proteins are diverse. This reprint covers diverse topics related to the characterization, chemistry, interaction, processing, modification, functionality, and/or application of various plant proteins in relation to human food.
Advanced Research on Animal Venoms in China
Recently, Chinese researchers have made significant progress in animal venom research in comprehending the diversity and complexity of these molecules and their potential applications in medicine, biotechnology, and as research tools. Advancements in 'omics' technologies such as proteomics, genomics, and transcriptomics have empowered Chinese researchers to identify and analyze venom-coded genes and proteins, revealing a kaleidoscope of novel peptide toxins with diverse functions and activities. The reprint focus on the perspective on some of the most recent and dynamic contributions of animal toxins research by Chinese researchers. The purpose of this reprint is to provide the latest work by Chinese researchers on the discovery of animal toxins, the mechanism underlining their actions, the mining of drug leads from peptide toxins, and the diagnosis and treatment of bites or stings by venomous animals.
Translational Aspects of Cardiovascular Biology
This reprint, edited by Prof. Gaetano Santulli, MD, PhD, collects the most up-to-date peer-reviewed scientific papers dealing with cardiovascular medicine, from basic science to pre-clinical and clinical investigations, highlighting the fundamental importance of translational medicine in the challenging quest for new therapies to cure cardiovascular disease. Indeed, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, and the search for novel mechanisms and therapeutics is desperately needed. Therefore, both basic and translational studies in the cardiovascular field represent a paramount strategy to identify novel therapeutic targets and improve the quality of life of patients with cardiovascular disorders.
Genetics and Evolution of Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants
This reprint represents a general view of what and how the research on plants at the molecular level (genetics, genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and so on) contributes to a good equilibrium among human needs, food security, and future strategies for mitigating the effects of global climate changes. Now more than ever, it is critical to understand the genetics and evolution of the gene mechanisms and the networks of different molecular pathways acting on plant abiotic stress tolerance in order to find new solutions for modern agricultural problems.This reprint is full of technical and specialized terms and, for this reason, its target audience is scientists and students trained in plant functional genomics, breeding, agronomy, and genetics. It is an exciting virtual tour through plant molecular responses to various environmental stresses, and new ideas and applications will be derived.
Chromatin and Gene Function: A Primer
The purpose of this primer is to provide students, teachers as well as academic and industry researchers with a succinct account of the chemical and structural features of chromatin and the role that these features play in the maintenance and function of the genetic material.It is universally accepted that DNA is the carrier of the genetic information that is transmitted from parents to their offspring and that it is responsible for the anatomy, physiology and behavior of all individuals throughout development and adult life. Yet, how this information is retrieved and used selectively to allow a fertilized egg to become an organism made up of myriads of different cells and tissues is not as evident and easily understood.Dr Lucchesi, an internationally known researcher and teacher, provides an easily opened window into the role that the complex of proteins and nucleic acids that are associated with the DNA play in mediating gene expression and in responding to environmental circumstances.
Challenging the Status Quo to Shape Food Systems Transformation from a Nutritional and Food Security Perspective
The present reprint aimed to present original research articles and reviews concerning the following: Access: affordability, allocation, and preference of food;Availability: the production, distribution, and exchange of food;Circularity in food systems at local, regional, or global levels;The development, impact, and ethics of novel and data-driven technologies in food systems;Food security and policy, governance, institutions, and trade;Influencing food consumption and demand regarding the food environment;The stability and dynamics of food security aspects;Sustainable food systems and agro-ecological food production;Utilization: the nutritional value, social value, and safety of food.
Advances of Metal and Metal Oxide Nanocomposites
Metal and metal oxide nanocomposites have received considerable attention as an alternative to conventional antimicrobial agents because of their diverse shape, size, high surface-to-volume ratio, chemical/physical stability, activity, and a greater degree of selectivity. The design and synthesis of metal and metal oxide nanocomposites (e.g. mono, bi-, tri-, and multi-metallic nanocomposites), as well as polymer-based nanocomposites and hydrogels with diversified nanostructures (e.g. nanoarrays, nanotubes, core-shell, nanosheets, and nanorods), has sparked considerable interest in terms of biomedical therapeutics, bioimaging, biosensors, drug delivery, and antimicrobial attributes.
Frontiers in New Drug Discovery
The intention of this Special Issue is to focus on new aspects of drug discovery, including the search for new molecular targets of various diseases, the creation of new modern methods for diagnosing diseases, the development of new test systems and kits for assessing the selectivity and effectiveness of new drugs, the study of the molecular mechanisms of biologically active compounds, the formulation of new drugs, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies, and preclinical trials of important molecules.
New Processes
A change from a consumer society to a sustainable and conserver society must focus on for the welfare of the planet and future generations through balance rather than by maximizing the exploitation of resources. This will bring about further growth as an option for both per capita consumption and the population. Muddled and tepid responses make it clear that the society has not developed a vision of what a truly sustainable society looks like. It is essential to bring awareness to the possibility of creating a sustainable society which will incorporate sustainable development goals (SDGs) to generate a future with more possibilities. In order to move towards a sustainable society, it is vital to provide the highest standard of wellbeing, from an environmental, human, and economic perspective. We can contribute by providing technical and scientific studies that can be accessed freely and implemented by all. These works cover the important parameters that can be addressed to achieve sustainability, such as being energetically sustainable, resource-sustainable, environmentally sustainable, fiscally sustainable, and socially sustainable.
Novel Molecules in Diabetes Melitus, Dyslipidemia and Cardiovascular Disease
The purpose of this reprint based on the Special issue "Molecules in Diabetes Melitus, Dyslipidemia and Cardiovascular Disease", IJMS journal, MDPI, is to present the impact in clinical practice as well as in medical research of novel molecules that have been introduced in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease.
Auditory and Phonetic Processes in Speech Perception
In the past two decades, great advancements have been made in phonetic, auditory, and psycholinguistic research on speech perception. As the fields have advanced, there has been increasing interdisciplinary collaboration between them, which has, in turn, revealed their interdependence. The aim of this Special Issue is to bring together top scholars in these three related areas to present research in a single volume with papers ranging from the neurophysiology of hearing, to phonetic and linguistic factors, to factors related to hearing loss and assistive devices, second language learning and accentedness, and the processing of speech and the mental lexicon. We invite you all to read the high-quality papers in this Special Issue.
Talent Identification and Development in Youth Sports
We are delighted to share our Special Issue on Talent Identification and Development in Youth Sports. In 2020, the editorial team had several informal discussions about the growing interest from researchers and practitioners in these disciplines, and subsequently wanted to create a platform to help advance this field of literature. Following these conversations, we decided to use the Personal Assets Framework (C繫t矇 et al., 2014, 2016) to outline our objectives and the potential research topics for our Special Issue. In doing so, it was hoped that the studies included can inform evidence-based youth sport policies and athlete development programmes. Submissions were encouraged from a diverse range of quantitative and qualitative research methods to examine the current context of talent identification and development in youth sports, as well as reviews to synthesise expert knowledge within these disciplines. In light of the articles that have been included within our Special Issue, we believe our initial aims of progressing the talent identification and development literature have been achieved, and now hope that the research presented can be utilised by key stakeholders (e.g., administrators, coaches, parents, practitioners) and organisational structures (e.g., national governing bodies, professional clubs, recreational teams, youth sport associations) to create more appropriate youth sport settings.
Thermal and Non-Thermal Treatments to Preserve and Encourage Bioactive Compounds in Fruit and Vegetables Based Products
Fruit- and vegetable-based products (F&Vs) have been conventionally processed using thermal techniques such as pasteurization, scalding, and/and drying, ensuring microbial safety and/or enzyme deactivation. Although thermal treatments are the most cost-effective tools, they could also reduce bioactive compounds, nutrients, and even sensory attributes. Nowadays, non-thermal food-processing technologies such as UV light and high-pressure processing have been proposed to develop food products with extended shelf life and preserved/encouraged bioactive compounds, while preserving the sensory properties. This reprint addresses the existing knowledge gaps of novel thermal and non-thermal techniques in the production of F&Vs and their derivatives. This reprint focuses on the effect of thermal and non-thermal treatments (light stresses, high hydrostatic pressure, pulse electric fields, oscillating magnetic fields, cold plasma, ultrasound, drying, etc.) on shelf-life, key bioactive compound changes (antioxidants, nutraceuticals, flavonoids, and non-flavonoids), enzymatic antioxidant systems, and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems of fruit- and vegetable-based products. Apart from an editorial written by the guest editors, the Special Issue consists of 13 papers that cover a range of subjects: thermal and non-thermal treatments on whole fruits (n = 4); thermal and non-thermal treatments on fruit and vegetable byproducts (n = 3); and, thermal and non-thermal treatments on fruit-based beverages and pur矇es (n = 6).
Molecular and Clinical Advances in Understanding Early Embryo Development
This reprint considers a wide variety of topics concerning molecular and clinical advances in understanding early mammalian embryo development. The authors of various chapters of this book examine oocyte biology, preimplantation embryo development, blastocyst implantation in the uterus, and second cellular lineage differentiation. In addition, epigenetic contributions to reproduction, which may occur throughout pregnancy and in resultant offspring, are also considered. Environmentally induced epigenetic changes in germ cells can render mammalian offspring less healthy, and these changes can be difficult to reverse. Included in these changes are those caused by assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). It remains to be determined whether the healthiest preimplantation embryos develop in vitro in conditions that mimic the physiological environment in vivo or whether simpler conditions can also foster this development in vitro. In this regard, a number of advances as well as challenges in ART are considered by the authors of the chapters included in this book.
Biological and Non-Biological Synthesized Nanoparticles against Bacterial Species
Scientific Study from the year 2018 in the subject Biology - Micro- and Molecular Biology, grade: 1, language: English, abstract: Conventional synthesis of nanoparticles chemically releases toxic byproducts so there was a sudden shift towards the synthesis of nanoparticles through biological methods as it was assumed that biosynthesized nanoparticles would not be toxic. The present study aims at comparative toxicity analysis of chemically and biologically synthesized copper oxide and silver nanoparticles. Biologically synthesized copper oxide and silver nanoparticles were subjected to antimicrobial activity against five bacterial species at different dilution rate (20%, 50%, 70% and 100%). The result obtained for this was that for silver nanoparticles synthesized chemically E.coli was susceptible at 20% and 50% dilution rate. At 70% dilution rate for copper oxide nanoparticles synthesized chemically two bacterial species i.e. E.aerogens and P.aeroginosa were highly susceptible but other three species were susceptible.
Bioethics in science education
When we follow the origins of the feeling of morality and its unfolding in different human societies, we can see that at its core lies the problem of violence and the means to avoid, diminish or control it. Therefore, through a study of reality and of our biological aptitudes for altruistic behaviour, we can observe the importance of these characteristics for human and scientific development. Bioethics seeks exactly to diminish the damage caused by man to other animals and to himself. And considering the importance of empathy and perception for the recognition of animal suffering, we observe that people who limit their moral considerations to the boundaries of their own human community may be more indifferent to the suffering of other animal species. Thus, a society that represses our moral considerations and endangers our mental health, may at some point produce a population indifferent to suffering, making acts of violence common, contributing to an inhumane education, and in a specific case, may also contribute to an inhumane science.
Formation Mechanism on Fullerene Nanoparticles
Academic Paper from the year 2023 in the subject Biology - Micro- and Molecular Biology, grade: 70, University of Greenwich, language: English, abstract: The exact pathway of these mechanisms can depend on a variety of factors including the method of synthesis, the reaction conditions such as the temperature, pressure, presence of catalysts and the starting materials used. The formation mechanism of fullerene involves the following steps: Nucleation, Growth, Rearrangement, Fusion, Annealing and purification. The proposed formation mechanism of fullerenes is based on a combination of experimental observations and theoretical models. In the early 1990s, researchers discovered that carbon clusters produced by methods such as laser ablation or arc discharge contained closed-cage structures consisting of pentagonal and hexagonal rings, which were later identified as fullerenes.
Reproduction and Development in Minor Phyla
This book brings to light for the first time many interesting features in 25 minor phyletic invertebrates without being constrained by phylogenetic considerations. Relation between coelom type and regeneration is elaborated.
Understanding the Christianity-Evolution Relationship
The relationship between science and religion is a topic that runs rife with misconceptions, misunderstandings and debates. Are science and religion always in conflict? Is Darwin's theory of evolution through natural selection atheistic? How does history shape current debates around science and religion? This book explores these questions in a neutral and balanced way, focusing on the Christianity-evolution relationship. It shows that two paradigms - the world as an organism and the world as a machine - have critically informed and guided the discussions. The author uses his deep understanding of the history and philosophy of science, particularly Darwinian evolutionary theory and its controversies through the past 150 years, to bring fresh ideas to the debate and to wider discussions such as environmental issues and hate. Understanding the Christianity-Evolution Relationship provides a lively and informative analysis and lays out multiple views so that readers can make their own judgements to increase their understanding.
Enhancing Humanity
As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, the possibilities of enhancing human abilities and traits through bioengineering are becoming increasingly real. But this raises profound issues surrounding ethics, morality, religion and economics which require careful consideration. In this groundbreaking book, the exploration of complex issues surrounding human enhancement is conducted. Delving into the ethical, social, political, technological, philosophical, psychological, legal, economic, spiritual, and global implications of this emerging technology. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the impact of human enhancement on society and government, the latest technological developments, and the legal and regulatory issues at stake. The authors also examine the philosophical and psychological implications of human enhancement, including its potential impact on personal identity and mental well-being. In addition, the book explores the economic and global context of human enhancement, as well as its spiritual and religious implications. Throughout, the authors highlight the need for responsible and ethical stewardship of human enhancement technologies. Accessible and engaging, this book is essential reading for anyone interested in the future of humanity and the profound questions that arise as we seek to enhance our own capabilities and potentials
Adventures of an Alaskan Woman Biologist
Discover the adventures of an Alaskan woman biologist as she relates experiences working across varied landscapes and water bodies, including caribou counts in the Northwest Arctic, king crab index fishing in Lower Cook Inlet, and Chinook salmon investigations on the mighty Yukon River. The book highlights information collected under sometimes harrowing conditions to ensure that conservation measures sustain fish and game for the community's well-being. "It was not lost on me that people's livelihoods or food supply depended on my ability to accomplish the job." The book describes the obstacles she encountered and the problem-solving steps she used to address them. "Field research in Alaska is not for the faint of heart, for Alaska's wilderness holds a deadly beauty." For many assignments, she was the first woman to undertake the job, which "sometimes caused the men I worked with to react with resistance." Her persistence to succeed was motivated by the allure of adventure, the intrigue of nature, and the splendor of Alaska's pristine wilderness.
Rare Monogenic Diseases
The reprint, "Rare Monogenic Diseases: Molecular Pathophysiology and Novel Therapies", provides a collection of original research articles and systematic reviews focused on diverse conditions stemming from a pathogenic single gene mutation. The articles are focused on the molecular mechanisms that are affected within a rare monogenic disorder, such as those involving gene expression, molecular pathways and cell death. Moreover, specific experimental therapies including drug discovery, drug repositioning, gene therapy and protein-based therapeutics are discussed.
Mathematical Modeling and Control of Bioprocesses
Mathematical modeling is at the heart of most current developments in biological system analysis and bioprocess optimization and control. At the industrial scale, this evolution is reflected in process analytical technologies (PAT), digital twins, and Industry 4.0. This book focuses on various aspects of mathematical modeling at the microscopic and macroscopic scales, respectively, and demonstrates the potential of these methodologies to gain insight into the cell metabolism, to support the design of software sensors to reconstruct unmeasurable variables, or to establish model-based optimization of the operating conditions and/or feedback control of the bioprocesses. The range of applications is vast, including biopharmaceuticals, bioenergy, and the environment.
Impacts of Molecular Structure on Nucleic Acid-Protein Interactions
Interactions between nucleic acids and proteins are essential requirements for the viability of cellular life because they are indispensable for many basic biological processes. DNA is typically presented as a specific double-stranded helical structure, but nucleic acids have great structural flexibility. Current knowledge demonstrates that the structural conformations of nucleic acids play critical roles in protein-DNA interactions. This book presents a collection of research findings published in the Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, titled "Impacts of Molecular Structure on Nucleic Acid-Protein Interactions".The breadth of research findings reported here demonstrates that the structural flexibility of nucleic acids plays critical roles in their interactions with proteins, with important implications across a range of human diseases, including cancer and some infectious diseases.Prof. Richard BowaterUniversity of East Anglia, Norwich, United KingdomProf. V獺clav Br獺zdaInstitute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
Scientific Papers by Developmental Biologists in Japan
This Special Issue, "Scientific Papers by Developmental Biologists in Japan", represents a collection of high-quality review articles, research articles, and communications on the development of multicellular organisms at the molecule, cell, tissue, organ, and whole-organism level, which were written and submitted by developmental biologists working in Japan.
Evaluation of Rice Mini Core Collection. Response to Low Temperature at Reproductive Stage
Diploma Thesis from the year 2023 in the subject Biology - Genetics / Gene Technology, grade: 8.0, language: English, abstract: Recently, a mini core panel of 98 genotypes representing the diversity of Indian rice germplasm was identified. This mini core is a very important resource that can be evaluated for specific traits of interest to identify superior genotypes that could be used as parents in breeding programmes. The present study was focused on a systematic evaluation of mini core rice collection along with a set of germplasm from the North Eastern Hill Region under cold stress with following specific objectives: To study and compare the effect of three dates of sowing (early, medium and late) on rice mini core collection with respect to yield contributing traits, to determine the trait that most affects yield under stress through path coefficient analysis, to study the effect of cold stress at booting stage on pollen and spikelet fertility under controlled low temperature conditions and to identify tolerant and susceptible genotypes. Rice farming is the largest single use of land for producing food. Ninety percent of the rice is produced in Asia, and it totaled 696 million tons in 2010. Rice production is one of the most important economic activities on Earth. Only 7% of all rice production is exported from its country of origin. Various abiotic stresses directly or indirectly affect the physiological status of rice and negatively alter its overall metabolism, often with impacts on grain yield. Cold stress is one of the abiotic stresses which are common problem of rice cultivation. Cold stress causes various injuries to rice seedlings in low-temperature and high-altitude areas and is therefore an important factor affecting rice production in such areas. Rice is a cold-sensitive plant that has its origin in tropical or subtropical areas, and cold damage can cause serious yield losses. Low temperature effects the rice cultivation mainly in two stages of de
Radioactivity
This reprint focuses on radioactivity and applied research on the gamma irradiation of marjoram and the transfer of natural radionuclides to date palm plants. Sustainable techniques such as phytoremediation and bio-sorption were used in the treatment of radioactive waste, and sustainable materials were used in the immobilization of radioactive waste and radiation shielding. Natural radioactivity was investigated in common construction materials.
Oncogenic Signaling of Growth Factor Receptors in Cancer
At the molecular level, the activation of growth factor receptors (GFRs) induces a mitogenic response and maintains cancer cell growth. The majority of malignant diseases are related to aberrant intra- and intercellular communication, associated with the GFR-mediated pathways. Moreover, the evasion of apoptotic signals and the requirement of angiogenesis were also found to be of fundamental importance for tumor progression and metastasis. In this context, a high expression of GFRs aids blood vessel formation, cell migration, and the inhibition of apoptosis. GFR-directed therapy that would theoretically selectively kill malignant cells and reduce the toxicity associated with nonselective conventional chemotherapy may be a promising treatment for cancer. Many intracellular proteins involved in GFR signal transduction can also function as oncogenes. Mutations affecting key proteins in the RAS/MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways are known to be crucial in maintaining the malignancy of different types of cancers. This information has guided the development of compounds designed to target one or more of these pathways in cancer cells. Even though there have been important advances in our understanding of GFRs and their signaling, certain essential information is still lacking, and these membrane receptors are still being laboriously studied by several research groups, to find therapeutic solutions to unmet medical needs.
Advances in Metabolic Profiling of Biological Samples
This reprint is a collection of articles belonging to the Special Issue Advances in Metabolic Profiling of Biological Samples of Metabolites. The Special Issue is dedicated to reviews and original articles covering the current methodological and technological advancements in the pre-analytical handling of biological samples, sample preparation protocols, analytical approaches for untargeted and targeted metabolic profiling, and metabolite annotation tools.
